The effects of holding positions on the frequency response of dynamic vocal microphones

Rast Muzikoloji Dergisi, sa.Aralık, ss.375-392, 2024 (Scopus)

This study examines the effects of different holding positions of the microphone body and capsule on the

frequency response of dynamic vocal microphones. Microphones enable the amplification and recording of

sound by converting sound waves into electrical signals. Based on their operating principles, microphones

are divided into two primary types: electromagnetic and electrostatic. The sample for this study consists

of dynamic microphones, which fall under the category of electromagnetic microphones. Dynamic

microphones are commonly preferred in live performances and studio recordings due to their durability,

affordability, and low self-noise levels. In this study, the effects of various grip positions on frequency

response were analyzed using the Shure SM-58 model dynamic microphone, which is widely used in both

studio and live sound environments. The selected grip positions include the standard stand position, fully

enclosed capsule grip, semi-open capsule grip, and body grip. These positions comprise the sample for

the study. The research was conducted in a controlled studio environment, isolated from external factors

and with appropriate acoustic conditions. Audio samples were collected by having a professional vocalist

sing the G4 note (392 Hz) on the syllable “na” for 5 seconds. The recordings, conducted at an industry-

standard 96 kHz sampling rate and 24-bit resolution, were repeated for each grip position and digitally

transferred as .wav files. The .wav files were normalized in Audacity in preparation for Fast Fourier

Transform (FFT) analysis. During the data analysis process, the normalized .wav files were analyzed

via FFT implemented in Python. The data were examined by analyzing the first seven harmonics within

three octaves above the G4 note (392 Hz). Referring to the standard stand position, the Fully Closed

Grip Position on the Capsule exhibited a significant reduction in lower frequencies alongside an increase

in upper frequencies. Similarly, the Capsule Half-Open Grip Position resulted in decreased low and mid

frequencies, with a corresponding rise in high frequencies. Observations from the Microphone Body

Grip Position also indicated a decrease in lower frequencies and an enhancement in upper frequency

regions. Based on these findings, this study aims to provide vocal performers, recording engineers, and

researchers in music technology with insights into achieving higher precision and professionalism by

understanding how appropriate microphone holding techniques influence the sound’s balance.